By Mercy Adewunmi
The National Assembly was abuzz on Wednesday as lawmakers convened to address the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria. The recent suicide bombing attacks in Gwoza, Borno State, which left scores dead, topped the agenda. Senators expressed outrage and shock, declaring that the country’s security system had collapsed.
The lawmakers blamed the security forces’ intelligence failure for the attacks and called for increased efforts to combat terrorism. Senator Ali Ndume’s motion on the Gwoza attack sparked intense debates, with lawmakers decrying the loss of lives and urging the military to adopt modern technology and scientific tactics.
The Senate condemned the attacks, describing them as “heinous” and “cowardly”. They also lamented the failure of intelligence agencies to prevent the attacks, despite prior warnings. Senator Ndume, who represents Borno South, urged the military to double its efforts in fighting insurgency and appreciated their efforts in reducing cases of terrorism in the state.
However, former Governor Adams Oshiomhole alleged diversion of funds by former service chiefs, which he claimed had hindered the military’s ability to effectively combat terrorism. He made his allegations during his contribution to the motion, but his prayer seeking to stop Service Chiefs from diverting funds meant for purchasing security equipment to building Universities and purchasing yachts was rejected when put to a voice vote by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The lawmakers’ debate was intense and emotional, with many expressing frustration and anger at the worsening security situation. They called on the Federal Government to task the military to re-think its conventional methods in fighting insurgency and other crimes by deploying modern technology and scientific tactics.
After deliberations on the motion, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, expressed condolences to the victims, government, and people of Borno State over the tragic suicide attacks in Gwoza. The Senate also directed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to, as a matter of national emergency, provide relief materials and medical support to the victims.
